Northern Bayberry Seeds

Northern Bayberry (Myrica pensylvanica) is a rounded shrub native to eastern North America, with leathery grey green leaves that have a spicy scent when crushed.

Male and female flowers occur on separate plants, so both sexes are needed for female shrubs to carry the persistent grey white berries. The waxy fruit has historically been used for candles. Plants tolerate poor or wet soil, drought, wind, and salt spray.

The seed's wax coating should be washed away with warm soapy water and rinsed before stratification.

Cold Hardiness Zone: 3
Seed Source: Toronto, ON
Stratification Required: 90 to 150 days cold
Mature Size: 6 to 10 ft tall and wide